Examinations of Learning Needs and Learning Satisfactions among Non-traditional Students - A Case of Extension Degree Programs in a Typical College in the Central Area in Taiwan

Author: Chi-Jung Fu(Department of Business Administration, Kai Nan Univeraity),Hui-chin Chu(Department of Business Administration,Shu-Te University)

Vol.&No.：Vol. 48, No. 1
Date：April 2003
Pages：113-126
DOI：10.3966/2073753X2003044801006

Abstract：

The purpose of this study is to investigate the learning needs of non-traditional adult students in college extension degree programs and the relationship between these needs, the ways of meeting them and the degree to which they have been met. To determine whether the traditional educational setting is suitable for non-traditional students, demographic variables, four learning need factors and four need satisfaction factors were examined. The test results showed that there was a relationship between demographics and learning needs. Gender, age, and position were all factors contributing to the different needs of adult students re-entering school. The test results also showed that there was a relationship between demographics and their satisfaction. Those who sought job advancement and career change were not satisfied with their curriculum and method of instruction. Furthermore, those who had a clearer goal of job advancement were more dissatisfied with the interpersonal-related factors. However, the results also indicated that the adult students who were interested in individual achievement were more satisfied with the instructional- and interpersonal-related factors. Overall, the participants were not satisfied with the services that the school provided. The financial barrier was one of the biggest issues for most of the adult learners.

Keywords：Non-traditional adult students, College-level extension programs, Learning needs and their satisfactions

《Full Text》